A free-flowing and an unbeaten innings of 81 from Michael Hussey ensured that the Aussies had nosed ahead of the English at the end of the second day of first Ashes Test match at Gabba.

Hussey’s knock ensured that the one session that the English side had won by capturing four of the Australian middle-order wickets was nullified. Giving him company at the end of the day was Brad Haddin, who had battled out almost a couple of hours to get to 21.

Earlier, the Australian openers had thwarted the English new ball bowlers well despite some good bowling by the tourists. There were a couple of close shouts that went to the third umpire through the UDRS but both went in favour of the home team and the only wicket to fall in the first session was that of Shane Watson (36).

Simon Katich brought up his half century in the second session but both, he and Ricky Ponting fell in succession. Michael Clarke and Hussey were involved in a 40-run stand but the vice-captain travails became more pronounced as the innings wore on and he managed only nine.

Marcus North did not get a start as well and when he was dismissed by the unusually loose Graeme Swann, the Aussies had collapsed from 96/1 to 143/5. Fortunately, Hussey and Haddin ensured that there were no further damage before the close of play.

At 220/5, the Aussies are still 40 short of England. However, with Mitchell Johnson, who has a Test century to his name, still to follow, the hosts will fancy their chances of taking a lead. However, the track has begun to take turn and begun its assistance for the bowlers. Batting fourth will not be an easy task which is why the Aussies will look to go up by at least 100.

On the other hand, England will need to restrict the side to a maximum of 300. They will know that till Hussey is around, things could remain difficult and if Swann isn’t able to regain his touch back it could get even more tough for the visitors.

Australia are slightly ahead at this stage, with a lot depending on how the first session on the third day does. SportingBet offers 8/15 for their win, drifting from 4/9 at the end of the first day. As compared to that, England is at 10/3 (Boylesport) to go 1-0 up. With the inclement weather though, a draw can never be ruled out and BetFred offers 7/1 for a stalemate.